Apple released the second Beta update for iOS 16.3 earlier this week. iOS 16.3 is a very minor update for now, introducing only one new feature and two detailed tweaks. iOS 16.3 updates mainly fix various bugs and improve security.
With the official release of iOS 16.3 next month, Apple may release more new features in subsequent Beta releases, but it’s not likely.
Apple’s advanced security features Security Keys
The first Beta version of iOS 16.3 introduced a new Security Keys feature for Apple IDs, which Apple says will be rolled out globally early this year.
The feature gives users the option to use a hardware security key to further protect their accounts. When enabled by Apple users, Security Keys can require the use of a hardware security key instead of a mobile verification code to enhance Apple’s two-factor authentication.
Apple does not intend to release its own hardware security keys. Apple users can use this feature with third-party security keys such as the YubiKey 5Ci, which is available for iPhone, iPad, and Mac with Lightning and USB-C connectors.
HomePod Handoff Prompt
As Max Weinbach pointed out on Twitter, the first iOS 16.3 beta will have a new prompt for transferring music from iPhone to HomePod. This feature already exists, but Apple has now added a reminder.
Changing the wording of emergency SOS settings
In the second beta release of iOS 16.3, Apple has tweaked the wording of some of the emergency SOS options in the Settings app to make them clearer.
“Call with Hold” is now “Call with Hold and Release”, “Call with 5 Presses ” is now “Call with 5 Button Presses” and “Countdown Sound” is now “Call Quietly”. Apple has also updated the descriptions of these features. By default, “Call Quietly” is disabled.
